On Sunday night, the 15th, Caverna Rock Pub , located in the central region of Belo Horizonte, hosted the legendary Tim “Ripper” Owens .
Judas Priest vocalist , the bands Odisséia and Hellway Train to open the event. Odisséia was the first to take the stage and presented a powerful repertoire, establishing itself as one of the main references of heavy metal in Minas Gerais. With their first album, For Waters Force… Winds of Power (2010), and the singles “Enemy” (2016) and “Prisoner of Mind” (2025), the group demonstrated why it is one of the best bands of the genre in the state, delivering an energetic and impeccable show.
The night took on a classic metal feel when Hellway Train, a band from Belo Horizonte, took the stage with their powerful sound and memorable riffs, reminiscent of the golden age of heavy metal. The show started in style with "Midnight Subway Train" and "Stryke by Lightning," two tracks that capture the essence of old-school metal, preparing the audience for what was to come. Highlights included Chris Maia , his impressive stage presence, and Filipe Stress drumming.
Next, “Calling All the Shots” and “Pride Is a Riot” raised the audience's energy, with impeccable solos and riffs performed by Vinícius Thram , who stole the show with his sharp technique and stage presence.
The band proved that BH's metal scene is more alive than ever with brutal performances of "Soulless" and "Jawbreaker" (a masterful Judas Priest ). A highlight was the powerful vocals of Marc "Hellway ," who stole the show with his attitude-filled performance.
To close with a flourish, “Metal Widow / Loverdroid” ended the setlist with an explosion of energy, making it clear that Hellway Train is a band not only worth listening to, but needs to be seen live. Those who were there left with the certainty: traditional heavy metal is in good hands.
Around 9:40 PM, the most anticipated moment of the night arrived. Along with Fabio Carito (bass), Marcus Dotta (drums), Bruno Luiz (guitar), and Wander Cunha (guitar), the legendary Tim “Ripper” Owens (ex-Judas Priest, Beyond Fear , Iced Earth ), current vocalist of KK's Priest – a project by former Judas Priest guitarist KK Downing – took .
The first song on the setlist was "Jugulator," the title track from Judas Priest's 1997 album – the first with Owens on vocals. A heavy and impactful choice that quickly sent the audience into ecstasy.
Next, “The Green Manalishi” (a Fleetwood Mac , popularized by Judas Priest with Rob Halford ) allowed Ripper to showcase his powerful high notes, while the audience responded in chorus to the refrains.
A moving tribute came with “Beyond the Realms of Death” (from the album Stained Class ), dedicated to former Judas Priest drummer Les Binks , who also co-wrote the song and passed away on April 15th. The performance, marked by soaring notes and audience participation, gave those present goosebumps.
The fast-paced rhythm returned with “Scream Machine” (Beyond Fear), driving the audience wild, followed by a guitar solo performed by Bruno Luiz and Wander Cunha . The setlist continued with two more bangers: “Blood Stained” (from the album Jugulator ) and “One More Shot at Glory” (KK's Priest, from the album The Sinner Rides Again ), both with intense audience interaction.
The diverse setlist also included “When the Eagle Cries” (Iced Earth, The Glorious Burden ) and a tribute to Paul Di'Anno , former vocalist of Iron Maiden , with “Wrathchild” ( Iron Maiden ). The very heavy “Hell is Home” (from the album Demolition ) had the audience singing in unison, while Owens seemed quite happy to notice the enthusiastic reaction.
“Electric Eye” – one of Judas Priest’s greatest classics, originally recorded with Halford, but also performed by Owens during his time with the band – was masterfully executed. The epic finale was “One on One” (also from Demolition ), crowning a night of powerful high notes and devastating riffs.
Tim “Ripper” Owens has proven, once again, why he is considered one of the greatest metal vocalists. With impeccable technique, powerful projection, and timeless high notes, he keeps his voice in excellent form, making it clear that his legion of fans has every reason to celebrate.
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